Senate Bill No. 282 aims to enhance the care and maintenance of graves for wartime veterans by appropriating $100,000 from the General Fund to the neglected cemetery account for the fiscal year 2027. The bill modifies existing statutes by repealing and substituting sections related to the appointment of committees responsible for overseeing the maintenance of veterans' graves. Specifically, it mandates that the chief executive authority of each city or town appoint a committee of three veteran citizens to ensure that the graves of wartime veterans are suitably cared for and maintained. Additionally, if the costs of maintenance are not covered by private individuals or cemetery trustees, the bill allows municipalities to use funds from the neglected cemetery account to cover these expenses.

The bill also updates the responsibilities of municipalities regarding neglected burial grounds and cemeteries, allowing selectmen to clear vegetation, mow lawns, repair fences, and maintain memorial stones. It clarifies that municipalities and their employees will not be held civilly or criminally liable for undertaking these maintenance activities. Furthermore, the bill includes various technical and conforming changes to existing laws to streamline the process. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 27-123
VA Joint Favorable Substitute: 27-123
File No. 155: 27-123